Durham Sixth Form Centre has achieved the highest national recognition, triumphing as the winner of the Investors in People (IiP) Platinum Award for UK Employer of the Year 2025 (50-249 employees). The prestigious national award was presented at a ceremony in Old Billingsgate, London, confirming DSFC's position as a top-rated organisation for staff wellbeing and management.
The victory marks the culmination of a 12-year transformation journey for the centre. After a challenging period in 2013, Durham Sixth Form Centre leaders and staff committed to a shared vision, resulting in an Outstanding Ofsted rating by 2017 and academic outcomes that consistently exceed national averages. This achievement is in recognition for their commitment to empowering staff, nurturing professional growth, and fostering an environment where employees and students can thrive.This focus on staff excellence directly translates into results for students, with the sixth form ranking in the top 21% nationally for academic progress and the top 2% for applied general attainment. Over 97% of staff report that DSFC is a great place to work.
The IiP judging panel praised Durham Sixth Form Centre for their success observing ‘The Centre has been on an amazing journey and seen great success! There is a clear plan for the future with measures in place to continue to see impact.’
Principal Jo Lain commented, ‘We have worked with Investors in People since 2013 to create a workplace that values its staff, supporting their wellbeing, professional development and aspirations. I am so proud that we have been recognised nationally for that work.’
The Platinum Employer of the Year Award is a definitive endorsement of Durham Sixth Form Centre’s commitment to both academic excellence and nurturing a highly valued, thriving workforce.
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